The condition that occurs when the level of vitamin B12 in the body is too low is called B12 deficiency. Deficiency of this vitamin causes memory problems, fatigue and even depression. Knowing the symptoms of B12 deficiency provides valuable benefits for the diagnosis and treatment of the disease. You can find the causes and symptoms of vitamin B12 in our content.
What is vitamin B12 deficiency?
Vitamin B12 deficiency occurs when the body does not receive enough vitamin B12. It can cause irreversible and potentially significant damage, particularly to the border system and brain. Even slightly lower than usual levels of vitamin B12 can trigger deficiency symptoms such as depression, confusion, memory problems and fatigue.
Symptoms of B12 deficiency
Low vitamin B12 in the body may indicate the following symptoms:
– Depression, fatigue, memory problems
– Anorexia, constipation, and weight loss is seen.
– Infants with vitamin B12 deficiency may experience facial tremors, reflex problems, feeding difficulties, and irritation.
– Individuals who are deficient in vitamin B12 have a higher risk of developing conditions such as psychosis, mania and dementia.
– Insufficient vitamin B12 can also cause anemia. The most common symptoms of anemia include fatigue, shortness of breath, and irregular heartbeat.
– Vitamin B12 deficiency also makes the body more susceptible to the effects of infections.
Vitamin B12 supplementation
Some individuals have difficulty absorbing vitamin B12 from regular animal food sources and may need supplementation. Supports can be taken orally or with a nasal spray. However, oral supplements often do not help to correct the deficiency. In such cases, vitamin B12 can be injected directly into the body. Some brands of soy milk and breakfast cereals are fortified with B vitamins.
Vegans can take supplements to prevent B12 deficiency as their diets do not contain animal products that naturally provide B12. This is especially valuable during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, B12 supplementation is not recommended for people with kidney disease.
